49ers getting opinions on their Hall of Fame

Roger Craig in one of the former players with input on the team's Hall of Fame.

The 49ers are seeking a diversity of opinions for their new Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. Hall of Fame, which will be a part of the stadium currently under construction in Santa Clara. Stadium designers are planning to set aside 15,000 square feet for the Hall, which will also serve as a 49ers museum of sorts.

Peter Soliogub of Cambridge Seven Associates Inc, along with Cortina Productions and the 49ers are fetching ideas for the Hall, and that included getting some from the media. The 49ers will also bring in season ticket holders, and former players along with teachers and students for input. A main focus of the Hall will be educational.

“Some of the best ideas we’ve ever heard are from young people,” said Soliogub. He has helped develop Hall of Fame museums for the New England sports, the Patriots, Orioles, Colts, the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame, the Babe Ruth museum and other projects including the Statue of Liberty. The secret to Soliogub success?

“Bringing stories to life. Engaging people so it’s realistic and interactive,” Soliogub said.

Former 49ers public relations director Jerry Walker is collecting artifacts. Walker and Soliogub found a treasure trove at Candlestick Park, which included a 49ers helmet car and a few old score boards.

Even though it’s only in the planning stages, Cortina is set on creating plenty of interactive displays and lots of video. There’s even talk of re-creating Bill Walsh’s office.

Soliogub has been impressed with the 49ers cooperation and he said he’s never seen some much input from former players. “They want it to be all inclusive,” he said. “That’s not always the case.’

Even though the team has lots of artifacts, they are always looking for more. If you have a piece of 49ers history you want immortalized contact Jerry Walker at Jerry.Walker@49ers.com.